How to Choose and Style the Perfect Throw Pillows for Any Room

How to Choose the Perfect Throw Pillows for Your Space

Throw pillows are a quick and easy way to add personality, color, and comfort to any space. But with so many sizes, shapes, colors and patterns to choose from, it can be tricky to select pillows that work with your existing decor. Follow this guide to learn some tips for choosing throw pillows that perfectly complement your home.

Consider the Size of Your Furniture

When selecting throw pillows, you'll want to consider the size of your sofa, chairs or bed that the pillows will go on. A pillow that's too small can look undersized and get lost, while an oversized pillow might overwhelm a smaller piece of furniture.

For sofas, a good rule of thumb is to choose pillows that are 1/3 to 1/2 the size of the back of the couch. For example, if your sofa back is 60 inches wide, look for throw pillows in the 20 to 30 inch range.

For chairs and loveseats, opt for pillows that are 1/2 to 2/3 the width of the seat. And for beds, standard pillow sizes range from 18 to 26 inches square.

Coordinate With Your Color Scheme

When selecting throw pillow colors and patterns, you'll want to consider the existing color palette in the room. If your space uses a neutral color scheme, bright and bold throw pillows can add an eye-catching pop of color.

For a space with lots of colors and patterns already, choose pillows in the same color family that complement the room. And if you want to introduce a new color, do so sparingly on the throw pillows so it doesn't overwhelm the space.

You can also draw color inspiration from artwork on the walls or architectural elements like the fireplace or kitchen backsplash tile when selecting pillow shades.

Match the Pillow Fill to the Use

In addition to size and color, the fill and texture of your throw pillows matters too. Different pillow fills serve distinct purposes.

For pillows that will get daily use for sitting and lounging, down or down-alternative fills provide softness and cushiness. Polyester fills are affordable, lightweight and maintain their shape well.

For decorative pillows that won't be used as frequently, lighter fills like polyfill or feather allow the pillow to hold its shape on a couch or bed.

And textured materials like velvet, faux fur and embroidered fabrics add visual and tactile interest.

Pull From Existing Textures and Patterns

Repeating textures and patterns from other elements in the room is a great way to pull together a cohesive look. If you have an area rug with a Moroccan trellis pattern, find throw pillows using the same motifs.

Or if your curtains or upholstered dining room chairs feature a jacquard floral fabric, select pillows with similar floral prints to tie the space together. Use pillows to establish a clear sense of style throughout the room.

Mix and Match Shapes

For lots of interest, mix and match pillow shapes like standard squares and rectangles with round, bolster-style or geometric pillows.

Or lean into all one shape for a bold look, like covering a bed with euro shams and decorative lumbar pillows for high-end hotel vibes. Don't be afraid to play around with different pillow proportions and configurations until you find a styling you love.

Add Specialty Pillows

In addition to standard pillows, don't overlook fun specialty options. Floor poufs, backrests and neckroll pillows add plush seating and support.

Outdoor pillows in weather-resistant fabrics make patio furniture more inviting. Shaped pillows in circular, rectangular or abstract shapes make for an artful accent.

And sentimental fabric pillows with family photos or text prints help personalize a space.

Change It Up Seasonally

One of the great benefits of decorative pillows is that they're easy to swap out for a quick seasonal refresh. Use warm colors and cozy knits in the fall and winter, then pack them away in favor of breezy linens and bright floral prints come spring.

Switching to seasonally inspired pillows is an easy way to give your home a fresh new look throughout the year.

Tips for Styling Throw Pillows

Once you've picked out your perfect pillows, proper styling is key. Follow these tips for showcasing your throw pillows in any space:

• On beds, layer two to six coordinating pillows in front of your standard sleeping pillows. Follow the tall-medium-small rule, with the tallest in back and the smallest in front.
• On sofas, arrange two to four pillows with the largest size in the center and smaller flanking. Angle pillows for a casual look.
• Set pillows in front of others to create visual interest and dimension.
• Freshen up flattened pillows by giving them a fluff and flip periodically.
• Secure removable covers to keep pillows looking pristine in between washing.
• Display decorative pillows in empty chairs when not in use for a pulled together aesthetic.

With the right selection and placement of throw pillows, you can easily elevate the look of any living room, bedroom or seating area. So don't overlook the power of pillows to create major style in your home!

Where to Shop for Throw Pillows

Looking for places to buy quality throw pillows to accent your home? Here are some top destinations for all styles and budgets:

Home Goods and Decor Stores

Stores like HomeGoods, World Market, and Kirkland's have a wide selection of throw pillows at affordable prices. You'll find lots of on-trend prints and patterns here across a variety of materials from velvet to performance fabrics.

Department Stores

Major department stores including Macy's, Nordstrom, and JC Penny carry a large array of decorative pillows from brands like DKNY, Nautica, and Ralph Lauren. You'll find classic styles alongside more modern designs here.

Specialty Linen Stores

Stores like Bed Bath and Beyond or Crane and Canopy offer high-quality bedding, with a big selection of coordinating euro shams and decorative bedroom pillows. They're a go-to for designing a hotel-worthy sleeping space.

Big Box Stores

Retailers like Target and Walmart provide plenty of budget-friendly throw pillow options. Hit up their clearance aisles for great deals on seasonal pillows. These mass retailers offer lots of classic patterns like buffalo check and abstract textures in easy-care fabrics.

Online Retailers

Websites like Wayfair, Overstock, and Amazon have an enormous selection of throw pillows across every style. Online shopping makes it easy to find specific pillow sizes, shapes and colors to fit your space. And customization options let you design your own pillows from scratch.

Throw pillows are an easy, affordable way to instantly elevate any living space. Keep these tips in mind when shopping for and styling pillows to pull your home decor together.

FAQs

How many throw pillows should you have on a sofa?

On a standard sized sofa, 2-4 throw pillows is ideal. Start with 2 larger pillows in the center, then add smaller accent pillows on the ends as desired. Keep the sofa from looking overstuffed by topping out at 4 pillows.

What size throw pillows should you use on a bed?

Good bed pillow sizes range from 18" to 36" square. Layer 2-6 pillows in decreasing sizes from the back with the largest in the rear. Euro shams in 26" x 26" or 36" x 36" sizes give a clean, tailored bed look.

How do you fluff throw pillows?

To fluff flattened pillows, remove the inserts and vigorously shake and squeeze them to re-loft the filling. Run your hands along the seams to break up lumps of stuffing. Plump and rearrange before placing back in pillow covers.

How often should you wash throw pillow covers?

Wash removable throw pillow covers every 2-3 months to keep them clean. Pillows used daily or by kids and pets may need washing every 3-4 weeks. Use a mild detergent and wash on gentle cycle, then air or machine dry.

Where to buy inexpensive throw pillows?

Budget-friendly stores for throw pillows include Target, Walmart, IKEA, and HomeGoods. Department store sales and Amazon's home section also offer affordable options. Check secondhand shops for unique vintage pillows at low prices.